BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand and Laos reaffirmed close bilateral relations during a courtesy call by Lao Ambassador Sisavath Inphachanh on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at Government House on December 23, as the ambassador formally began his duties in Thailand.
Prime Minister Anutin welcomed the ambassador and said the ambassador’s experience and familiarity with Thailand would help advance cooperation between the two neighboring countries, which maintain long-standing cultural, social, and economic ties.
Ambassador Sisavath expressed condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, and conveyed sympathy over the recent flooding in southern Thailand. He said the Lao government had provided 200,000 US dollars in financial assistance to support recovery efforts. The prime minister thanked Laos for the assistance and welcomed continued cooperation, including in trade and economic development.
Both sides reviewed bilateral ties as Thailand and Laos mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. They welcomed ongoing high-level exchanges and discussed plans to convene the Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation in 2026, with Laos offering to host the meeting.
Discussions also covered connectivity and regional issues, including the scheduled opening of the 5th Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge linking Bueng Kan and Bolikhamxay on December 25, which is expected to enhance transport, trade, tourism, and people-to-people links. The prime minister also clarified Thailand’s stance on the Thailand–Cambodia border situation, stating that related measures are temporary and bilateral and would not affect fuel exports to Laos. (NNT)
